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Croatia national team leads in crypto rewards for fans

Croatia's National Team | First to Reward Fans in Crypto

By

Emily Carter

Oct 7, 2025, 04:41 PM

Edited By

Markus Huber

2 minutes estimated to read

Croatia's national soccer team interacts with fans, showcasing cryptocurrency rewards during a game celebration.

Croatia's national football squad has stepped into the crypto arena, becoming the first team to reward fans using cryptocurrency. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has launched its VATRENI token, promising engaging perks for loyal supporters.

New Fan Engagement through Crypto

The HNS has integrated the VATRENI token, built on Kadena's blockchain, into its fan store app. Fans can earn 1% back in VATRENI tokens on merchandise purchases, which can be redeemed for exclusive experiences, limited-edition items, and future match tickets. This migration from Polygon to Kadena aims to streamline fan interactions, making the process smoother and more transparent.

Community Sentiment Strong

Feedback from fans shows excitement about this fresh approach. One fan on a user board remarked, "That's cool. I like the idea of fan tokens, if they can be implemented well." Another added, "Hope we see more such uses of crypto." Clearly, there's a growing interest among fans regarding how cryptocurrency can enhance their support experience.

What This Means for Fans

While the concept isnโ€™t new in the tech world, its application in sports is significant. As other teams look to boost fan engagement, Croatia's adoption of crypto could set a trend. This initiative aims to foster a stronger bond between the team and its supporters by leveraging blockchain technology.

"This is a game-changer for fan interaction!"

Key Points to Note

  • ๐ŸŒŸ VATRENI Tokens: 1% cashback on merchandise purchases.

  • ๐Ÿš€ Blockchain Shift: Migrated from Polygon to Kadena for improved functionality.

  • ๐Ÿ“ฃ Fan Excitement: Growing enthusiasm about fan tokens on forums.

As more organizations explore similar paths, will crypto redefine how fans interact with their favorite sports teams?

What Lies Ahead for Fan Engagement

There's a strong chance that Croatia's pioneering initiative will inspire other teams to explore crypto as a means of enhancing fan experiences. With fan engagement increasingly prioritized in sports, experts estimate that up to 40% of major leagues could adopt similar programs within the next few years. This shift will likely be driven by the desire to create deeper connections between teams and their supporters, while also capitalizing on the growing popularity of digital currencies. As fans become more comfortable with using crypto, the demand for innovative rewards programs is expected to rise, potentially leading to a wave of new fan-centric features across the sports landscape.

An Unexpected Echo from the Past

Looking back, the introduction of the internet in the 1990s caught many industries off guard, much like cryptocurrency is doing today. Businesses quickly recognized that engaging online communities could unlock tremendous value, shifting advertising and commerce into a digital realm. Those who adapted early, such as Amazon, shaped the future landscape of their markets, while others struggled to keep up. Just as the digital age redefined consumer relationships, the rise of crypto could reshape how teams and fans interact, hinting at a transformation that goes beyond superficial perks, reconfiguring the very foundation of fan loyalty.